William Jackson Harper is a distinguished American actor and playwright whose career has flourished across stage, television, and film. He first gained widespread recognition for his role as Chidi Anagonye in the critically acclaimed NBC comedy series The Good Place, where his performance earned him a nomination for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. Harper’s ability to blend humor with profound philosophical themes showcased his exceptional talent and solidified his place in contemporary television.
Harper’s theatrical journey began with his New York debut in the 2006 production of Full Bloom, followed by a notable performance in Lynn Nottage’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play Ruined. His Broadway debut came in 2014, portraying civil rights activist Stokely Carmichael in All the Way, a production that won the Tony Award for Best Play. His stage presence has continued to impress audiences, with standout performances in productions such as After the Blast and Primary Trust, the latter earning him the 2023 Obie Award for Outstanding Performance.
In addition to his stage work, Harper has made significant contributions to film, appearing in notable projects like Midsommar and Dark Waters. His role as Quaz in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania further exemplifies his versatility and ability to engage with diverse genres.
Harper’s commitment to storytelling extends to his work as a playwright, with original works like We Live Here and Travisville reflecting his deep engagement with social issues. As he prepares for his upcoming role in the revival of Uncle Vanya, Harper continues to captivate audiences with his remarkable talent and dedication to the arts.